Italian opera maestro Bocelli sings the praises of ‘enchanting, magical’ AlUla
From the Duomo in Milan to New York’s Met, opera star Andrea Bocelli has performed in some of the world’s most historic venues. But it was his concert at the Saudi heritage site AlUla on Thursday that had the famous Italian tenor reaching for superlatives.
After serenading a limited audience due to social distancing measures, Bocelli told Arab News that he “will take home memories of the enchanted place that is AlUla, a spectacular and magical witness to man’s quest for beauty.”
The concert — Bocelli’s third in the Kingdom — also made history with what is believed to be the firstproceeding ever performance within the walls of the ancient desert city of Hegra. The spectacular backdrop to the performance and the response of the audience left the Italian tenor eager to perform in other Saudi cities.
“At each concert, I am amazed by the warmth with which I am welcomed, and I feel alive and privileged to witness the brotherly power of music,” Bocelli said.
The master tenor said that he is happy to see how popular his music is among Saudis. “It is a nice surprise that keeps on increasing every time I return.”
Bocelli said that experiencing the Kingdom’s “refined culture of hospitality” firsthand was overwhelming and “exceeded all expectations.”
He also shared a few tips for aspiring Saudi opera singers, reminding them that a beautiful voice is only one of many “necessary ingredients.”
“It takes determination, frankness and discipline, but always with optimism.” He urged singers not to be intimidated by the challenges, but to “treasure any accidents along the way, and do not give up, do not stop believing in your potential.”
He urged singers not to be intimidated by the challenges, but to ‘treasure any accidents along the way, and do not give up, do not stop believing in your potential.’